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Bejing, June 19: Korean veteran Yoon Inseog emerged top of the class by carding a three-under-par 68 to lead eight other Monday qualifiers into the China Tour’s Fragrant Hills International Beijing Open which will tee off at the Fragrant Hills International Golf Club on Thursday.

Despite marking his card with four bogeys, Yoon also displayed his putting prowess when he nailed seven birdies to finish one shot ahead of Chinese amateur, Wang Youxin at the 41-men Qualifier.

“I’ve been in China for more than 20 years already where I started off as a teaching pro. The greens were perfect and I putted really well.

“The green speed was fast but I like it. This is a very tight and challenging golf course with several dogleg holes. When the tournament begins on Thursday, I’ll play like how I played today. Keep my focus and do my best,” said the 50-year-old.

Meanwhile Wang is relishing the stern test that lies ahead after returning with a 69 that earned him a coveted spot at the Fragrant Hills International Beijing Open.

“I took my chances today and felt really good out there. I triple bogeyed 14 but managed to make birdies on two of the last three holes,” said Wang.

The Chinese amateur, who is currently studying in the United States, is excited to be back in China where he will tee up against the professionals.

“This is my second time playing in the Monday qualifiers. I’ve been away studying and training in the United States and don’t have much opportunity to come back to China as often as I would like to.

“Now that I’m back, I want to put myself into a competitive environment and test myself. I haven’t decided if I’ll turn professional yet,” said Wang.

Chinese Taipei’s Mou Chunghao, who is among the nine qualifiers for the main event is hoping to find similar magic with his hot putter when the ￥1.35 million gets underway.

“This is my first time playing on this golf course and the greens are in perfect conditions. My putting was very good and I hope it continues to stay that way,” said Mou.